Kaizer Chiefs return to CAF Confederation Cup action on Sunday knowing that only a win will keep their quarterfinal hopes alive.
Amakhosi travel to Zambia to face Zesco United at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Matchday 3 of Group D, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.
This will be the second meeting between the two sides in African club competition. They last crossed paths in the 2018/19 CAF Confederation Cup play-off round, where Zesco emerged victorious over two legs with a 5–2 aggregate scoreline.
Kaizer Chiefs face CAF challenge
Chiefs have collected just one point from their opening two group matches, leaving them with little room for error.
A victory in Ndola would significantly boost their chances of progressing to the quarterfinals, especially with Group D rivals Al Masry and Zamalek set to face each other later on Sunday.
While a draw could still keep Amakhosi in the race, particularly if Al Masry lose to Zamalek, it would leave them relying on favourable results elsewhere and strong performances at home.
In that scenario, Kaizer Chiefs would need to win their remaining CAF fixtures and hope Zamalek continue their unbeaten run.
Defeat in Zambia, however, would place severe pressure on the Glamour Boys, likely forcing them to win all their remaining group matches to stand any chance of reaching the last eight.
With a demanding February schedule that includes domestic fixtures and a daunting trip to Egypt still to come, a positive result against Zesco United would ease the burden on Chiefs, not only in continental competition but also in the Betway Premiership.
Kaizer Chiefs returned to CAF competition this season after a four year absence. The last time they were in a CAF competition, they lost 3-0 to Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League.